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HUD Issues New Olmstead Guidance on Housing

June 13, 2013

WASHINGTON, DC (June 13, 2013) -- The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has issued new guidance that addresses the role of housing in accomplishing the goals of the Olmstead Supreme Court Decision of 1999.

HUD is the primary federal agency responsible for creating housing for adults with disabilities, including those with autism spectrum disorders, by funding affordable housing (bricks and mortar) in communities throughout the country. It does not, however, fund the long-term services and supports individuals with disabilities frequently need. That funding usually comes from other federal and state sources, such as the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS), which is housed within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

HUD issued this guidance to urge its funding recipients (housing providers, public housing authorities, real estate developers, landlords, etc.) to help state and local authorities implement and plan their activities in support of the Olmstead decision. In addition, the HUD guidance encourages housing providers to support Olmstead implementation by increasing integrated housing opportunities for individuals with disabilities who are transitioning from, or at serious risk of entering institutions, hospitals, nursing homes, adult care facilities, and other restrictive, segregated settings.

Autism Speaks is encouraged by the renewed focus on affordable and community-based housing that accounts for the long-term service and health care needs of people with disabilities. The need for more housing options that include residential supports for adults with autism is critical to ensure that all people have choices and can be self-determined as adults. There is no greater risk of institutionalization than the absence of housing options.

To read Autism Speaks’ position on Housing and Residential Supports, click here: